COVINGTON — A 39-year-old Pearl River woman received a life sentence after pleading guilty to multiple charges of sexual abuse of minors and animals, including first-degree rape of a victim under 13 years.
According to 22nd JDC District Attorney Collin Sims, Ashley Carambat, 39, was sentenced to life in prison after she pleaded guilty to the following charges:
- First Degree Rape (Victim under age 13) (Life Imprisonment)
- Production of Pornography (Victim under age 13) (25 Years)
- Production of Pornography involving Juveniles (20 Years)
- Aggravated Crimes Against Nature (Victim over age 13 but under age 17) (20 Years)
- Sexual Abuse of an Animal (5 Years)
Judge Reginald T. Badeaux III sentenced Carambat on Thursday, March 12. He ordered the sentences to run concurrently.
During the sentencing hearing, the court heard powerful victim impact statements from Carambat’s victims, the DA’s office said.
One of the victims told the court, “Six years ago, I had terrible things happen to me that no kid should have to go through. Every day, I suffer from depression and anger. She’s just a monster. [You’ve] scarred me for life.”
Carambat’s other victim addressed her directly: “I am nothing like you…I hope one day I can fully forgive you, not for you, but for me.”
The victim’s guardians also testified, condemning her choices. One stated, “You’re the predator. They’re strong kids, but no kid deserves to go through what you put them through.” Another added, “You chose to stay with Steve Harden and continued to make poor decisions.”
Before sentencing, Carambat addressed her victims, stating, “I’m sorry for not being there and not protecting you. None of this is and will ever be your fault. I will always love you. I hope that one day there will be forgiveness.”
Co-defendant Steven Harden, who is currently serving a 20-year sentence for prior convictions of molestation and computer-aided solicitation of one of the same victims, did not enter a plea today, according to the DA’s office. Harden will go on trial for the remaining charges on March 23.
“The betrayal of a child’s safety by an adult they should have been able to trust is a profound evil,” said District Attorney Collin Sims. “While these survivors will carry these scars forever, today’s life sentence ensures their abuser will never have the opportunity to harm them or any other child again. I am in awe of the courage and strength shown by these young people in court today.”
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